Bob Nightengale reveals the Astros have decided on their next manager!
The Astros’ manager search appears to be nearing completion.
The Astros are expected to promote bench coach Joe Espada to manager for the month, according to Bob Nightengale. Espada has long been a leader at the position and is highly regarded after leading the team to six consecutive ALCS trips, three World Series trips and a World Series title as a bench coach.
Houston Astros Name Joe Espada Manager
This solution was much more extensive than necessary.
When the Astros connected with a prospect like Brad Ausmus, scary things started to happen.
It’s a very good sign that Joe Espada is getting the job after gaining Dana Brown’s trust.
The last few seasons in Houston have been tumultuous to say the least.
We saw the president of baseball operations fired over a sign-stealing scandal.
The GM was effectively fired after they won the World Series and it wasn’t until the owner and former players made offseason decisions that we saw a new GM and manager hired and retired. The behind-the-scenes power struggle between the analytically minded front office staff and Jim Crane and his “baseball guy” advisers like Jeff Bagwell is evident.
It’s very encouraging that Brown’s best friend, Brad Ausmus, is preferred over Jeff Bagwell. The Astros need to let the generals build their roster and staff.
Owners build teams and GMs/Presidents build rosters.
When owners try to do too much, confusion ensues.
In three hours, see what Jerry Jones’ thirst for power and decision-making has done for the Cowboys.
Espada brought continuity to the golden era, working under analytics manager in AJ Hinch and old school manager in Dusty Baker.
This should help blend the two styles and continue the club culture that has been carefully nurtured.
Following the manager’s announcement, the Astros will now need to continue updating their roster.
